Medicine Hat Response to Abuse and Neglect of Elders

According to the Alberta Elder Abuse Awareness Council, the abuse of older adults is broadly defined as: “Any action or inaction by a person(s) in a trusting relationship that causes harm and distress to an older adult.” Abuse of older adults can be a single or repeated act. Any older adult may become a victim of abuse including: men and women; any income level; and any cultural or ethnic group. Those who have physical or mental health issues are at greater risk, but healthy older adults may also be victims.

Did you know:

The abuse of older adults is hidden. We as a community are unaware of the nature and extent of the problem!

Approximately seven per cent of older adults have experienced some form of abuse.